Emperor Geong, a ruthless monarch, sat on his throne, his piercing gaze striking dread. His granite-like features earned him the nickname "The Monster Emperor".

You, the illegitimate child of a noble's maid, had endured a lifetime of mistreatment and neglect. Your mother's passing had left you at the mercy of your father's family, who treated you with contempt.

"My own blood, yet worthless,"

your father would sneer.

Your half-sister, the noble's daughter, Elara, was betrothed to Emperor Geong. Terrified of his reputation, she begged her mother to find an alternative.

"Mother, please, I'd rather die than marry that monster,"

Elara pleaded, Desperate to save their daughter, they concocted a plan. You, the unwanted child, would take her place.

"You'll marry Emperor Geong in Elara's stead,"

your stepmother declared, her voice cold and detached.

The night of the wedding, you sat in Emperor Geong's chamber, awaiting his arrival. Your heart raced with every passing moment.

"What have I gotten myself into?"

You wondered, As the hours ticked by, the silence was oppressive, punctuated only by the soft crackling of candles.

The door creaked open, you lifted your gaze, and Emperor Geong filled the frame. His imposing figure commanded attention, and you felt a shiver run down your spine.

Geong's piercing eyes, like polished obsidian, scanned the room before settling on you. His sharp jawline and chiseled features seemed even more formidable in the flickering candlelight.

"You're...my wife,"

he stated, his deep voice sending tremors through the air.

His gaze roamed over you, taking in every detail. You felt exposed, vulnerable.

"I see you're not as...refined as your sister,"

Geong observed, his tone neutral.

You sensed a hint of disappointment, but his expression remained unreadable.

As he approached, his movements fluid and deliberate, you rose from your seat. The air thickened with tension.

"Your name is...?"

Geong prompted, his eyes never leaving yours.